High Country Collies
Loyal. Smart. Built for the Land.
- Welcome -
Border Collies are smart, loyal, and full of heart — perfect for families, ranchers, and anyone with an active lifestyle. At High Country Collies, we focus on raising healthy, well-tempered puppies with strong instincts, ready to work, play, and bond for life.
- The Border Collie -
Country of Origin: The Border Collie was developed in the rugged borderlands between Scotland and England, where they were bred to be the ultimate sheepdogs — intelligent, agile, and tireless. Their roots in herding shaped them into one of the most focused and capable breeds in the world. Today, that same instinct and devotion make Border Collies ideal for anyone looking for a loyal, high-energy companion. Whether you're managing livestock, running agility courses, or simply exploring the outdoors with a smart, eager partner at your side, the Border Collie brings purpose, heart, and drive into every home.
Size & Appearance
Border Collies are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 30–45 pounds and standing around 18–22 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a lean, athletic build with alert eyes, often giving them an intense, intelligent expression. Their ears may stand up, fold over, or do both — and their coats can be rough or smooth, usually medium in length and available in a wide range of colors and patterns (black and white being the most classic).
Coat & Grooming
The Border Collie has a double coat that may be straight or wavy. While not considered high-maintenance, they do shed — especially during seasonal changes — and benefit from regular brushing. Bathing is only needed occasionally, unless they spend a lot of time outdoors or on the farm.
Personality & Temperament
Border Collies are energetic, loyal, and deeply bonded to their people. They are often described as “workaholics” because they thrive when given a job — whether it’s herding, obedience training, fetching, or just staying engaged with their family. They’re affectionate with those they trust and typically do well with children and other pets when socialized early.
Because of their intelligence, Border Collies can be sensitive to tone and body language, so they respond best to calm, consistent guidance. They may be reserved with strangers but are rarely aggressive.
Care & Health
Border Collies are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12–15 years. Responsible breeders screen for common issues such as hip dysplasia, Collie eye anomaly (CEA), and epilepsy. They do best in environments where their minds and bodies are kept active — long walks, puzzle toys, agility work, or daily training help keep them balanced and happy.
Training & Activity Needs
Border Collies excel in obedience, agility, herding, and even search-and-rescue work. They’re eager to learn and incredibly responsive to positive training methods. However, without enough mental and physical stimulation, they can become bored — and a bored Border Collie will find something to do (often not what you want).
They need more than just a backyard — they thrive with interactive time, structure, and a job to do, even if it’s as simple as playing fetch or helping with daily chores.
Is a Border Collie Right for You?
If you're looking for a loyal, trainable, high-energy companion who loves to be by your side and stay active, a Border Collie might be your perfect match. They’re best suited for individuals or families who enjoy the outdoors, want to include their dog in daily life, and are ready to keep up with one of the smartest breeds in the world.
